MONTCLAIR - Montclair High School was buzzing with activity Monday morning even though school was not in session.

More than 1,000 students and members of the Montclair High School community were at the school early in support of the 5th annual Miles for Montclair walk-a-thon.

The nonprofit raised more than $25,000 - more than $100,000 to date - to help students on campus who are homeless.

Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is also a national day of service, school officials host Miles for Montclair on the holiday.

Yerixa Caballero, 18, who participated in her fourth walk, said she wanted to do her part to help those who don't have a home.

"If I can make a difference by doing something for a couple of hours, then why not?" she said. "I feel at peace in my heart being able to help."

This year marked the largest crowd and donations raised for the nonprofit, said Amahl Thomas, a teacher at Montclair High who helped create the grassroots event.

The first Miles for Montclair Walkathon was held on May 23, 2009 when Thomas and fellow teacher Fabian Martin learned there were 150 students homeless at the school. They decided to do a three-mile walk, starting at the high school and going around the community, to raise funds to be able to help students who may need assistance.

Today, there are almost 350 students who are living with other families, in abandoned cars or homes, Thomas said.

Any student in need can come to the office and can get vouchers for temporary housing or food.

"This walk destigmatizes the issue, one in 10 students are homeless and this brings it to light," Thomas said.

Aside from students, attendees also included Supervisor Gary Ovitt and Chaffey Joint Union High School Board member Sue Ovitt as well as Montclair Councilman John Dutrey.

Students are each asked to raise at least $25. Martin said they could not do the event without the financial help and support from several community sponsors. Southwest Airlines provided students with lunch once they were done with their walk, he said. In addition Metro Nissan and Superior were also major sponsors.

"This is really a grassroots movement from the students and staff," Martin said. "This is a true Montclair event."